Chapter 7 - EMILY GAVE ME MY KEYS BACK
Three months after the hospital, Emily placed my car keys in my hand.
I stared at them.
“What?”
“You’re cleared to drive short distances.”
“I know.”
“So drive.”
My chest tightened.
Daniel had controlled my keys for almost a year.
First because I was “forgetful.”
Then because pregnancy made him “responsible.”
Eventually, I had to ask permission to use my own car.
Now the keys felt heavier than metal should.
“I’m scared.”
Emily nodded.
“I know.”
“What if I panic?”
“Pull over.”
“What if I can’t?”
“Call me.”
“What if—”
“Rachel.”
I looked at her.
“You don’t have to be fearless to leave the driveway.”
There it was.
I drove six blocks.
Bought coffee.
Sat in the parking lot and cried.
Then drove home.
The next week, twelve blocks.
A month later, physical therapy alone.
Freedom returned in boring increments.
May you like
Beautiful, boring increments.
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